New Restrictions Against Fraud in Russia

The State Duma of Russia has adopted, in the first reading, a government-proposed bill that includes a second package of measures to combat online and telephone fraud. The document contains around 20 initiatives and proposes a number of restrictions for citizens and market participants.

The draft law suggests limiting the number of bank cards that can be issued to one person, capping it at a maximum of 20 cards overall, and no more than five at a single bank. Communication operators will be required to make a note of incoming international calls, and the introduction of 'children's' SIM cards is planned to protect minors from fraudsters and harmful content.

The changes also pertain to digital services. Access to the 'Public Services' platform will be reinstated through various means, including in-person visits to MFCs, via messengers, through bank applications and websites, as well as using biometric data or strong electronic signatures.

According to the draft law, starting September 1, 2026, incoming calls from foreign numbers will be blocked unless the subscriber has previously consented to accept them.